Bokaal met drie kleine granaatappels c. 1506 - 1538

Albrecht Altdorfer's "Bokaal met drie kleine granaatappels" showcases a meticulously rendered vessel, articulated through the stark contrast of line and shadow. The artist’s concentration on form and texture gives the goblet an almost palpable presence. The structure of the "Bokaal" is an interplay of repeated, rounded shapes, creating rhythm and visual harmony. Notice how the eye is drawn upwards, guided by the verticality of the stem and the tiered arrangement of its components. The repetitive motif of curved segments, reminiscent of both petals and fruit, binds the composition together, suggesting a convergence of nature and artifice. Altdorfer’s precise technique invites us to consider how the print’s materiality informs its meaning. The density of lines creates depth, while the monochrome palette emphasizes the object's sculptural qualities. Through this rigorous formal approach, Altdorfer presents a compelling meditation on the relationship between ornamentation and function, craftsmanship and symbolism.